Naomi is one of the chief figures of the Book of Ruth. She was Ruth's mother-in-law who moved to Moab with her family during a famine, only to return to her home in Bethlehem with Ruth after her husband and sons died. Despondent and poor, she found hope again when Ruth married Boaz and bore a son.
Notable Sources
All Sources
A
The Consequences of Leaving the Holy LandTALMUD
The Consequences of Leaving the Holy Land
TALMUD
Elimelech and his sons were punished for leaving Eretz Yisrael, highlighting the consequences of abandoning the Holy Land and the loss of status that befell Naomi as a result. Rabbi Shimon ben Yoḥai explains the severe consequences faced by Elimelech and his family for leaving the Holy Land, as seen through Naomi's tribulations.
Naomi's AcceptanceTALMUD
Naomi's Acceptance
TALMUD
Naomi's acceptance of Ruth's determination to convert to Judaism is a powerful moment of recognition and support. The Talmudic tractate Yevamot discusses various aspects of family law, including the laws of conversion.
From Naomi to MaraTANAKH
From Naomi to Mara
TANAKH
Naomi's request to be called 'Mara' instead of 'Naomi' poignantly reflects her profound sense of loss and bitterness. The Book of Ruth narrates Naomi's return to Bethlehem with her daughter-in-law Ruth after enduring significant hardships in Moab.
Naomi's TransformationCOMMENTARY
Naomi's Transformation
COMMENTARY
Naomi's shift in tone and attitude towards Hashem reveals a profound emotional and spiritual journey. The book of Ruth, read during Shavuot, highlights themes of loyalty, kindness, and divine providence, tracing the lineage of King David.
The Many Meanings of Naomi's LamentMIDRASH
The Many Meanings of Naomi's Lament
MIDRASH
Naomi's lament in the Book of Ruth is rich with multifaceted interpretations, particularly around the Hebrew word 'ana' and its various meanings. The sixth-century midrash, Ruth Rabbah, delves into Naomi's statement about her affliction, offering a range of interpretations that reveal deeper ethical and spiritual lessons.
Divine Orchestration in Naomi's StoryMUSAR
Divine Orchestration in Naomi's Story
MUSAR
Even in the midst of suffering, the goodness of the Holy One Blessed be He ensures that the outcome will ultimately result in great good. Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan, known as the Chofetz Chaim, uses the story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz to illustrate divine orchestration and the ultimate good that can come from suffering.
Naomi's Guidance and RedemptionCOMMENTARY
Naomi's Guidance and Redemption
COMMENTARY
Naomi plays a crucial role in guiding Ruth towards understanding the concept of redemption and her connection to Boaz. Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz’s modern translation and commentary on the Book of Ruth offers a clear and engaging exploration of Naomi’s guidance and the familial ties that connect Ruth to Boaz.
Ruth's Commitment to Naomi and JudaismTARGUM
Ruth's Commitment to Naomi and Judaism
TARGUM
Ruth's unwavering commitment to converting to Judaism, despite Naomi's attempts to dissuade her, is a powerful testament to faith and loyalty. The Aramaic Targum provides an interpretive translation of Ruth's story, emphasizing her dedication to Naomi and the Jewish faith.
Naomi's Divine MissionCHASIDUT
Naomi's Divine Mission
CHASIDUT
Naomi's departure from Bethlehem is part of a divine plan to bring Ruth, who possesses a Jewish soul, back to her rightful place within the Jewish nation. The Book of Ruth, traditionally read during Shavuot, parallels Ruth's story of loyalty and conversion with the Jewish people's acceptance of the Torah.
The Blessings of KindnessCOMMENTARY
The Blessings of Kindness
COMMENTARY
Naomi's recognition of Boaz's kindness illustrates the reciprocal relationship between the poor and the wealthy, showing how the poor bring blessings to the household of the wealthy. The Tze'enah Ure'enah, a late 16th-century Yiddish commentary, makes Jewish texts accessible to those not fluent in Hebrew, blending biblical texts with rabbinic teachings.